HHI is a coordinated sector-wide approach based on the premise that how we design, build and operate hospitals can improve patient outcomes and workplace safety, prevent illnesses, create environmental benefits, and save money.

"The support of state health care associations like Michigan Health & Hospital Association is critical to the success of HHI," said Gary Cohen, President of Health Care Without Harm and Founder of HHI. "To achieve widespread adoption, we must come together to demonstrate sustainability in health care is both a sound business decision and the right thing to do for improved public health and reduced environmental impact."

The leading hospital systems, Supporting Organizations and health care facilities work together to accelerate the widespread use of proven sustainability practices in six key "Challenge" areas:

Engaged Leadership

Healthier Food

Leaner Energy

Less Waste

Safer Chemicals

Smarter Purchasing

Success will be measured and tracked with aggregate data that can be sorted by state or hospital type -- data that will be of great use for demonstrating success.

"Michigan hospitals have a long-standing commitment to building healthier communities as evidenced by their voluntary efforts to implement smoke-free hospital campuses, eliminate industrial trans fats and adopt healthy eating practices," said MHA Executive Vice President, Operations, Brian Peters. "The Michigan Health & Hospital Association is proud to expand our state's efforts by supporting the Healthier Hospitals Initiative to improve environmental health and sustainability in Michigan and throughout the nation."

HHI Supporting Organizations support the goals of the Healthier Hospitals Initiative and seek opportunities to share information with organization members and associates. The green movement in health care is completely in concert with any organization's mission of improving the health and well-being of their community, and promoting effective stewardship of human and financial resources.